One in seven adults
Across Europe, roughly 1 in 7 adults struggles with basic literacy — meaning trouble reading a form, leaflet, or simple letter. Most have hidden this for years.
Signals to notice: 'I forgot my glasses' when asked to read; 'I'll bring it home and check with my wife/son'; consistent avoidance of paperwork. Never embarrass, never insist someone read aloud.
Know your country's free adult literacy provider (UK: Read Easy; FR: Alphabétisation; DE: Volkshochschulen lea.online; IE: NALA). Offer a referral with the words: 'There are friendly people who help with this, free, completely confidential. Would you like the number?'
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